Social Capital Phenomenology Study among People Who Treat A Mental Disorder Caregivers

Abstract

ABSTRACT Background: It’s a stressor to have a family of mental illnesses. Financial, social, psychological, and physical burdens are created by looking after people with mental disorders. For the patient, the family is the informal caregiver. It is important to discuss, with a great burden, how social capital can be developed and how the role of social capital is played in treating people with mental disorders. The research was carried out on Javanese individuals who have a cultural structure that prioritizes the importance of peace in collective life. Not only the nuclear family, but also the extended family and the larger community are active in the life of Javanese society. This study aimed to describe the social capital phenomenology study among people who treat mental disorder caregivers. Subjects and Method: This was a qualitative study using a phenomenological study approach. The study was carried out in Surakarta City, Central Java, in September and October 2019. These study subjects were people who were carers for people with mental disorders. The sample was taken using purposive sampling technique. Data were collected using in-depth interviews and observation. Qualitative data analysis was obtained by means of data reduction, data presentation, and drawing conclusions and verification. Data reliability was carried out using NVivo 12 software. Data validity was done by matching the results of interviews with observations, as well as multiple interviews. Results: Data was collected from four respondents with different demographic backgrounds. Six themes were obtained, namely 1) trust in God, government, family, and neighbors; 2) The role of family and neighbors in seeking help; 3) The role of family and neighbors in caring for patients; 4) building social networks; 5) Participation in society; and 6) Social capital is dynamic. Conclusion: The respondents are found to have the same social cognitive capital, but different social structural capital. The level of education, the economic level, self-esteem, and the behavior of people with mental disorders are influenced by structural social capital. Family and neighbors can have a positive or negative role in looking after people with mental disorders. They also play a role in the decision to seek assistance for individuals with mental disorders. Keywords: mental disorders, carers, social capital Correspondence: Adriesti Herdaetha. Doctoral Program of Community Development / Empowerment, Universitas Sebelas Maret. Jl. Ir. Sutami 36A, Surakarta, Central Java. Email: aherdaetha@gmail.com. Mobile: +628122582995 DOI: https://doi.org/10.26911/the7thicph.01.40